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Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs & Cats
Over 400,000 copies of Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs & Cats have been sold since its original publication more than 20 years ago
The book that is the definitive guide to a natural lifestyle for dogs and cats is now completely updated and revised--for the first time in 9 years. Writing with the warmth and compassion that have won them a national following, veterinarian Richard H. Pitcairn and his wife Susan Hubble Pitcairn, noted specialists in chemical-free nutrition and natural healing for pets, show dog and cat owners how to provide the very best in companionship and lifelong care.
They now cover environmental matters, including pollutants both inside the home and out, as well as recent hot-button topics, such as Mad Cow disease, Lyme disease, and the West Nile virus. They've updated dozens of recipes for delicious and healthful pet food and treats. With a guide to handling emergencies and an in-depth "Quick Reference" section, they give specific instructions for preventing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of animal diseases and disorders-with special attention to homeopathic, herbal, and nutritional remedies.
The book that is the definitive guide to a natural lifestyle for dogs and cats is now completely updated and revised--for the first time in 9 years. Writing with the warmth and compassion that have won them a national following, veterinarian Richard H. Pitcairn and his wife Susan Hubble Pitcairn, noted specialists in chemical-free nutrition and natural healing for pets, show dog and cat owners how to provide the very best in companionship and lifelong care.
They now cover environmental matters, including pollutants both inside the home and out, as well as recent hot-button topics, such as Mad Cow disease, Lyme disease, and the West Nile virus. They've updated dozens of recipes for delicious and healthful pet food and treats. With a guide to handling emergencies and an in-depth "Quick Reference" section, they give specific instructions for preventing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of animal diseases and disorders-with special attention to homeopathic, herbal, and nutritional remedies.
480 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 1982
254 people are currently reading
892 people want to read
About the author
Richard H. Pitcairn
10 books10 followersSince 2006 I've been living with my wife Susan Hubble Pitcairn (a professional artist) in Sedona, Arizona. I am retired from active practice but I continue to teach, offering a year long course in veterinary homeopathy to licensed veterinarians.
I'm often asked how I became interested in alternative approaches to veterinary medicine. Here's how it happened:
I graduated from veterinary school in 1965, from the University of California at Davis, California. Starting in a mixed practice (small animals, farm animals, horses, circus animals) I saw a wide variety of health problems and also learned much more how to manage cases. But I did not see the results that I expected to have using the treatments learned in veterinary school and this, to me, was a disappointment.
Therefore, I assumed at the time, I needed more education. This led me to Washington State University and a Ph.D. emphasizing the study of viruses, immunology and biochemistry. I worked intensively with cell cultures and inbred mice, trying to understand how the different tissues in the body were able to recognize each other. I also helped teach virology, running the laboratory section with another graduate student. This training finished in 1972 and I graduated with a degree in Veterinary Microbiology. Staying on for a while at the university, I did research in muscle diseases and taught public health & epidemiology in the veterinary school.
But after a few years I left the academic world and returned to practice. Though I'd learned a great deal about how the body worked, especially the immune system, I found that I still did not know how to better cure disease, especially chronic issues. This led me to study nutrition, which is so important in maintaining a healthy body. Finding out about the pet food industry and what sources were used to make the food led me to recommend fresh foods for animals, prepared at home. This was very satisfying and many animals were greatly helped by making this change.
However, there are animals that are not helped, even by excellent natural nutrition. These are the ones that are too ill to eat or have injuries or illness that is so severe that there is not time for nutrition to have an effect. So I continued to look for some other means of restoring health in a true sense, not just covering symptoms with drugs or removing diseased tissues with surgery.
After looking into many approaches I settled on homeopathy as the most practical and effective one that I could find. For example, much is known about using herbs in healing but most animals simply will not take these herbs in sufficient quantity or for long enough to make this approach practical. If we compare this to giving one or a few doses of pleasantly tasting pellets as done in homeopathy we can see the practical advantage of this method. I also find that homeopathy is much more specific in how the medicines can be used with extraordinary detail on how even herbs can be used as medicines.
I found homeopathy to be intellectually complete and satisfying. As a 200 year old system of medicine it has been very well developed and an incredible amount of experience and information have given us the tools we need to work with almost any kind of health problem. The difficulty for me was to learn how to use the books, the repertories and materia medicas that were developed for human beings, to help animals. This has taken some years as you might expect, actually some 20 plus years, but has been very successful.
I have been fortunate that I have been able to teach other veterinarians how to do this work. Since 1992 have offered a yearly program, the Professional Course in Veterinary Homeopathy, and to date we have over 500 animal doctors trained in using this method.
I'm often asked how I became interested in alternative approaches to veterinary medicine. Here's how it happened:
I graduated from veterinary school in 1965, from the University of California at Davis, California. Starting in a mixed practice (small animals, farm animals, horses, circus animals) I saw a wide variety of health problems and also learned much more how to manage cases. But I did not see the results that I expected to have using the treatments learned in veterinary school and this, to me, was a disappointment.
Therefore, I assumed at the time, I needed more education. This led me to Washington State University and a Ph.D. emphasizing the study of viruses, immunology and biochemistry. I worked intensively with cell cultures and inbred mice, trying to understand how the different tissues in the body were able to recognize each other. I also helped teach virology, running the laboratory section with another graduate student. This training finished in 1972 and I graduated with a degree in Veterinary Microbiology. Staying on for a while at the university, I did research in muscle diseases and taught public health & epidemiology in the veterinary school.
But after a few years I left the academic world and returned to practice. Though I'd learned a great deal about how the body worked, especially the immune system, I found that I still did not know how to better cure disease, especially chronic issues. This led me to study nutrition, which is so important in maintaining a healthy body. Finding out about the pet food industry and what sources were used to make the food led me to recommend fresh foods for animals, prepared at home. This was very satisfying and many animals were greatly helped by making this change.
However, there are animals that are not helped, even by excellent natural nutrition. These are the ones that are too ill to eat or have injuries or illness that is so severe that there is not time for nutrition to have an effect. So I continued to look for some other means of restoring health in a true sense, not just covering symptoms with drugs or removing diseased tissues with surgery.
After looking into many approaches I settled on homeopathy as the most practical and effective one that I could find. For example, much is known about using herbs in healing but most animals simply will not take these herbs in sufficient quantity or for long enough to make this approach practical. If we compare this to giving one or a few doses of pleasantly tasting pellets as done in homeopathy we can see the practical advantage of this method. I also find that homeopathy is much more specific in how the medicines can be used with extraordinary detail on how even herbs can be used as medicines.
I found homeopathy to be intellectually complete and satisfying. As a 200 year old system of medicine it has been very well developed and an incredible amount of experience and information have given us the tools we need to work with almost any kind of health problem. The difficulty for me was to learn how to use the books, the repertories and materia medicas that were developed for human beings, to help animals. This has taken some years as you might expect, actually some 20 plus years, but has been very successful.
I have been fortunate that I have been able to teach other veterinarians how to do this work. Since 1992 have offered a yearly program, the Professional Course in Veterinary Homeopathy, and to date we have over 500 animal doctors trained in using this method.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
July 25, 2013
What kind of doctor gives a recipe for natural cat food that includes grains? Cats are obligate carnivores! I would just stick with supermarket corn kibble, then. I'm not a vet, but I don't hear many vets recommending that homemade cat food be mixed with millet. Some stuff in the book is useful, such as how to give your pets medicine and information on different illnesses. But most of it is the "alternative medicine" pseudoscience in pet form. Not falling for this anymore.
August 2, 2020
This book has lots of healthy, natural recipes for dogs and cats. My personal experience with using the book came when one of my dogs became diabetic. She was terrified of needles, so I knew there was no way I could put her through daily insulin shots. I found this book and exclusively used the recipes and extended my beagle's life by a number of years. That is my experience. Others will have to decide for themselves if they think that natural foods are the way to go. I know that when I went online and looked up the major brands of pet foods, I was appalled at much that I read! Our pets are family members and deserve the best food available. I believe that natural food is the way to go! This book offers a variety of quality recipes to provide your pet with the best possible natural diet!
March 14, 2011
There is some really, really valuable information in this book. I appreciate the holistic approach to dog care in terms of not only physical health, but emotional and mental health as well. Many people discount the feelings of animals, but dogs are man's best friend and we would not feel such connections to them if they did not have the ability to at least reflect back to us some of our own feelings. It is a grave disservice to pets, particularly dogs I believe, to treat them as though their emotional or mental environment does not have an impact.
Some of the chapters are more informative then others. I especially liked the chapter about what is really in dog food. Although I already knew most of the information from my own research, it is validating to see more and more literature on the gross atrocity that is accepted as pet food today. The big pet food industry has perpetrated against unknowing consumers and pets for far too long. We need more vets to reject the all-mighty dollar and promote true and species appropriate feeding for our animals.
The allergy section is also a very good portion of the book. I think, as our pets are poisoned more and more by pet food and chemicals, allergies are becoming more epidemic than ever. I see more and more pets surrendered due to poor health and allergies are often part of that.
Finally, the reference section is a very useful tool. Of course, it does not replace a vet's opinion or common sense, but a nice section to reference symptoms or minor ailments.
So, why only three stars? This book is grain heavy in the recommended recipes / feedings. Point blank, no dog (or cat), needs grains. Sure, they are a cheap source of protein (inferior), but that does not make it right. He offers vegetarian recipes for pet owners. Get a freaking clue! If you want a vegetarian animals, get one. Dogs and cats ARE NOT VEGETARIANS! Feeding beans to a dog is about one of the stupidest things I have ever heard.
Come on Dr. Pitcairn! You had such a wonderful thing going, and you ruined it by not insisting on a holistic species appropriate diet. Your book is a landmark in pet care - ditch the grains and other non-carnivorous meal plans.
Some of the chapters are more informative then others. I especially liked the chapter about what is really in dog food. Although I already knew most of the information from my own research, it is validating to see more and more literature on the gross atrocity that is accepted as pet food today. The big pet food industry has perpetrated against unknowing consumers and pets for far too long. We need more vets to reject the all-mighty dollar and promote true and species appropriate feeding for our animals.
The allergy section is also a very good portion of the book. I think, as our pets are poisoned more and more by pet food and chemicals, allergies are becoming more epidemic than ever. I see more and more pets surrendered due to poor health and allergies are often part of that.
Finally, the reference section is a very useful tool. Of course, it does not replace a vet's opinion or common sense, but a nice section to reference symptoms or minor ailments.
So, why only three stars? This book is grain heavy in the recommended recipes / feedings. Point blank, no dog (or cat), needs grains. Sure, they are a cheap source of protein (inferior), but that does not make it right. He offers vegetarian recipes for pet owners. Get a freaking clue! If you want a vegetarian animals, get one. Dogs and cats ARE NOT VEGETARIANS! Feeding beans to a dog is about one of the stupidest things I have ever heard.
Come on Dr. Pitcairn! You had such a wonderful thing going, and you ruined it by not insisting on a holistic species appropriate diet. Your book is a landmark in pet care - ditch the grains and other non-carnivorous meal plans.
March 1, 2019
Some good advice but as many others have written in their reviews don't feed your dog or cat grains. They are NOT good for us and they are not good for dogs or cats either. This vet pushes them so buy another book on caring for your dog or cat.
July 30, 2008
This book was an interesting read, but both myself and several friends put our dogs [11 total] on the recommended diet and dry food brand. ALL dogs reacted badly - despite a slow taper to the new diet - and we ended up back on our old system. I have since read elsewhere that domesticated dogs have evolved a different digestive system and do not tolerate raw meats well (which Pitcairn recommends). And all of our dogs did very poorly on the book's recommended dry food brand.
Note: I highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Selects dry dog food, which is what we were all originally using and went back to. It's an excellent, high grade dog food. (Btw: I'm not a Purina spokesperson!) And we supplement with a little helping of cooked meats; whatever we're having for dinner. And giving fish oil capsules - as recommended by my vet - has made a huge difference in my dogs' coats and joints/mobility.
Note: I highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Selects dry dog food, which is what we were all originally using and went back to. It's an excellent, high grade dog food. (Btw: I'm not a Purina spokesperson!) And we supplement with a little helping of cooked meats; whatever we're having for dinner. And giving fish oil capsules - as recommended by my vet - has made a huge difference in my dogs' coats and joints/mobility.
September 7, 2014
Dr. Pitcairn's book fails to recognize significant dietary and metabolic differences between cats and dogs. His home made diet section is an excellent example of this. Would not recommend.
partially-read
April 17, 2021I took this book out of a Little Free Library in hopes of finding some recipes for homemade alternatives to my cat's diet of 100% canned wet food, on which he has done well since a UTI last year led me to take him off dry food but which is getting to be logistically and financially unsustainable. But the authors lost me with their grain-based recipes. Those may be OK for dogs but not for cats. Then I saw the section urging me to consider a vegan diet for my pet, why not, it will be good for the planet, and I was definitely done.
The rest of the book, which I skimmed, seems to come from the alternative-medicine and ethical-shopping trends of the late 90's and early 00's. While I am as wary of conventional medicine for my cat as for myself, I no longer see abstinence from science-based approaches as the way to save the world. I won't be using this book and I don't think I'll pass it on to anybody else either.
The rest of the book, which I skimmed, seems to come from the alternative-medicine and ethical-shopping trends of the late 90's and early 00's. While I am as wary of conventional medicine for my cat as for myself, I no longer see abstinence from science-based approaches as the way to save the world. I won't be using this book and I don't think I'll pass it on to anybody else either.
June 19, 2017
Stopped reading when I got to the point that they feel it is a good idea for dogs to be vegetarians and cats to cut back on meat. This is ridiculous as both species are carnivores, cats are obligate carnivores. These ideas were backed up by the typical Netflix special inaccurate statisticis and scare tactics. They use scare tactics to try to show how evil meat is (no cancerous animals do no go into the food chain). With inaccuare info like this so early into the book I am not trusting anything they say.
September 19, 2007
This is a huge encyclopedia of a book for dog and cat owners, and it's a tremendous source of alternative information. I'll be using it as a reference work, but it's also sensitive, humane, and wonderfully thorough.
March 28, 2019
Excellent coverage of all things canine and feline. Courageous and careful and thoroughly-researched vegan and vegetarian diets, which will greatly minimize the currently terrible impact of our companion animals on our farmed animals, and help heal the planet.
November 20, 2008
I should probably give this 5 stars, but thought it a little too strict, and slightly unrealistic by offering things like homeopathic spaying alternatives (WTF?). That said, it's been a great resource. The book includes a lot of information on pet health, not just diet, although Pitcairn is very big on feeding your pet the right diet to keep your pet healthy. It also includes a section of common health problems and holistic treatments.
We've switched our dog Cleo to a fresh foods diet - not all raw meat, but we do incorporate raw meat - and have seen an immediate improvement in her health. She doesn't sleep as much as she used to and she just has more bounce in her step and seems so much happier.
I don't follow Pitcairn's exact recipes, but used his advice as a guide (complemented with other sources), to get the balance of meat, grains/potatoes, veggies, etc., and now I cook up a batch of Cleo food every 4 or 5 days, and she gets that in the mornings along with raw food (usually a chicken thigh from Costco) at night. It's easy, and actually cheaper than her old dog food.
We've switched our dog Cleo to a fresh foods diet - not all raw meat, but we do incorporate raw meat - and have seen an immediate improvement in her health. She doesn't sleep as much as she used to and she just has more bounce in her step and seems so much happier.
I don't follow Pitcairn's exact recipes, but used his advice as a guide (complemented with other sources), to get the balance of meat, grains/potatoes, veggies, etc., and now I cook up a batch of Cleo food every 4 or 5 days, and she gets that in the mornings along with raw food (usually a chicken thigh from Costco) at night. It's easy, and actually cheaper than her old dog food.
June 14, 2013
Lots of good information in this book including specific homeopathic and herbal treatment options. The only reason I don't give it five stars is I don't agree with feeding pets grains and legumes. What I found was after a while grains such as brown rice and legumes such as pinto beans were simply coming out undigested. After trying it his way I found my dogs were much healthier and more energetic once I got rid of the grains. Healthier meaning no health concerns and also no fleas (which is a sign of ill health).
Since digestion and the actual use of food to strengthen the body is the best way to prevent disease, I was disappointed in his menu plans. On the other hand, his homeopathic and herbal suggestions are quite good.
I still keep it as a reference book but look up the same problems in Dr. Marty Goldstein's "The Nature of Animal Healing" book AND "The Goldstein's Wellness & Longevity Program" for comparison.
Since digestion and the actual use of food to strengthen the body is the best way to prevent disease, I was disappointed in his menu plans. On the other hand, his homeopathic and herbal suggestions are quite good.
I still keep it as a reference book but look up the same problems in Dr. Marty Goldstein's "The Nature of Animal Healing" book AND "The Goldstein's Wellness & Longevity Program" for comparison.
May 9, 2021
Nagyon durván belerohantam egy olyan könyvbe, ami a kutyák és macskák vegán etetését pártolja, én, aki szerint minden ember egyen azt és úgy, ahogy neki jól esik, de a macskáimat a világért nem fosztanám meg sem a csirkemelltől, sem a tonhaltól (utóbbit elég csak kimondanom, és a kövön csúszva érkeznek 10 másodpercen belül, bárhol is voltak előtte, akár mély álomban is). Ezt azért kiegészíteném azzal, hogy ha a hús mellett zöldségeket is kapnak, azzal nincs problémám – itt pedig értelmet is nyerhetett volna a könyv, csak hogy a következő probléma az volt, mint ami az emberi szakácskönyvek nagy részével: gyakorlatilag beszerezhetetlen hozzávalókat ír mindegyik recepthez, és itt adtam fel az etetési részt (plusz egy vegán tápot is emleget, amit én pl. üzletben még nem láttam itthon).
March 19, 2013
A nice book, overall. It has some good tips for different ailments and I do like the recipes that they have for the dogs and cats. I could never afford to feed my pets a home cooked diet all the time but I like the recipes that are supplemental to dry kibble. I already tried the cottage cheese supplement (but without adding the powder that was recommended.) This may be a book I buy just to have on hand and I don't buy books that often.
Read
February 26, 2014Great for pet owners! The biggest revelation for me was the part about modern commercial pet food, and how harmful it can actually be. Also, I found out how dangerous cortisone drugs are! And vets give our pets those drugs like it is ok! I am Determined to follow all guidelines in the book to make my kitty very healthy.
November 13, 2011
His first edition was my first exposure to alternative veterinary medicine. Although I do not agree with him on some points of nutrition, he is a patriarch of this field has done much to advance the healthcare of options of domesticated animals world wide.
August 8, 2018
Book was missing several pages. Not entirely sure the author is qualified to advise on this topic
April 19, 2019
Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs & Cats by Richard H. Pitcairn, D.V.M., Ph.D. and Susan Hubble Pitcairn is a very informative vetrinary book for any dog or cat lover!
The book I'm reviewing is the updated guide printed in 1995. It begins with this notice: This book meant to supplement the advice and guidance of your vetrinarian. No two medical conditions are the same. Moreover, we cannot be responsible for the unsupervised treatments administered at home. Therefore, we urge you to see out the best medical resources available to help you make informed decisions on pet care.
This book contains two parts: Natural health for our Pets, and Quick Reference. The natural health for our pets has fifteen chapters: We Need a New Approach to Pet Health Care, What Do They Really Put In Pet Food?, Try a Basic Natural Diet -- With Supplements, Easy-to-Make Recipes for Pet Food, Special Diets for Special Pets, Helping Your Pet Make the Switch, Exercise, Rest and Natural Grooming, Creating a Healthier Environment, Choosing a Healthy Animal, Emotional Connection and Your Pet's Health, Neighborly Relations: Responsible Pet Ownership, Lifestyles: Tips for Special Situations, Saying Good-bye: Coping with a Pet's Death, Holistic and Alternative Therapies, and How to Care for a Sick Animal.
These chapter describe life for our animals before they were domesticated, and how we can bring our beloved pets into their best health while simulating these conditions as closely as we can. The major change and possible most radical thoughts this book presents are the change of diet from commercial food to "human" food. I've been warned again and again by vetrinarians not to give people food to my animals. While it's still not a good idea to do so in the traditional sense of table scraps, switching your animal from commercial food to a special natural foods diet may improve the health of your pet. Dr. Pitcairn describes the best environments we can provide our pets and how to create these environments. I do disagree with some of Dr. Pitcairn's statements, but using your own mind to evaluate the advice given is important as well.
The quick reference section gives brief descriptions, prevention, and treatments of almost 50 diseases dogs and cats can get. Additionally, there is a section called Special Guides that addresses emergencies, and additional information to what is already given in the book, such as schedules for treatments, more recipes, sources, books, and tapes the reader might be interested in.
There are 15 tables throughout the book to look at.
This book is a must read for all owners of a dog or cat. Personally, I think every pet owner should have it in their personal library. Even those considering getting a dog or cat should read this book to see what type of care they need. There is a guide about choosing the pet that's best for you. It discusses breeds and other aspects of raising animals.
The book I'm reviewing is the updated guide printed in 1995. It begins with this notice: This book meant to supplement the advice and guidance of your vetrinarian. No two medical conditions are the same. Moreover, we cannot be responsible for the unsupervised treatments administered at home. Therefore, we urge you to see out the best medical resources available to help you make informed decisions on pet care.
This book contains two parts: Natural health for our Pets, and Quick Reference. The natural health for our pets has fifteen chapters: We Need a New Approach to Pet Health Care, What Do They Really Put In Pet Food?, Try a Basic Natural Diet -- With Supplements, Easy-to-Make Recipes for Pet Food, Special Diets for Special Pets, Helping Your Pet Make the Switch, Exercise, Rest and Natural Grooming, Creating a Healthier Environment, Choosing a Healthy Animal, Emotional Connection and Your Pet's Health, Neighborly Relations: Responsible Pet Ownership, Lifestyles: Tips for Special Situations, Saying Good-bye: Coping with a Pet's Death, Holistic and Alternative Therapies, and How to Care for a Sick Animal.
These chapter describe life for our animals before they were domesticated, and how we can bring our beloved pets into their best health while simulating these conditions as closely as we can. The major change and possible most radical thoughts this book presents are the change of diet from commercial food to "human" food. I've been warned again and again by vetrinarians not to give people food to my animals. While it's still not a good idea to do so in the traditional sense of table scraps, switching your animal from commercial food to a special natural foods diet may improve the health of your pet. Dr. Pitcairn describes the best environments we can provide our pets and how to create these environments. I do disagree with some of Dr. Pitcairn's statements, but using your own mind to evaluate the advice given is important as well.
The quick reference section gives brief descriptions, prevention, and treatments of almost 50 diseases dogs and cats can get. Additionally, there is a section called Special Guides that addresses emergencies, and additional information to what is already given in the book, such as schedules for treatments, more recipes, sources, books, and tapes the reader might be interested in.
There are 15 tables throughout the book to look at.
This book is a must read for all owners of a dog or cat. Personally, I think every pet owner should have it in their personal library. Even those considering getting a dog or cat should read this book to see what type of care they need. There is a guide about choosing the pet that's best for you. It discusses breeds and other aspects of raising animals.
January 10, 2024
This book marked the beginning of my holistic journey with my dogs almost 20 yrs ago when I was a teen. I got it on the recommendation of my conventional vet when I mentioned wanting to make my dogs' meals at home. He knew of this book and liked it because the recipes inside are "balanced" and were created by a vet, so figured it would be a great starting point for me.
Firstly, I'll state that this book is far more than a recipe book. It covers a multitude of topics surrounding almost every aspect of pet health, with a handy symptom/disease based guide in the latter part which goes over homeopathic, diet, and herbal treatment options. Dr Pitcairn is considered a pioneer of natural pet health, and very knowledgeable on the subject.
My experience with this book is very mixed. It certainly ignited my interest in natural health for animals, and I followed the recipes faithfully. At the time, I had two senior dogs, a malamute mix and a husky mix. The husky mix succumbed to cancer which I believe was likely present when I adopted him two years previously, and my malamute experienced symptoms of hormonal imbalances that led to a neuter surgery, followed by a brief stint of seemingly good health in which my vet boasted that he should live to at least 15, before passing away a year or so later at 12 from a sudden extreme health decline that I believe was either poisoning from my neighbor or else potentially intestinal cancer (necropsy was inconclusive). What I've learned in the years since then about diet is that dogs really have no need for carbohydrates, and a carb-heavy diet can contribute to hormonal imbalances, inflammation, and cancers. Unfortunately all of the recipes in the book are *very* heavy on the carbs (rice, oats, corn meal, bread, etc), and I wouldn't recommend them to anyone looking to feed their pets a homemade diet consequently (fortunately their are a lot of excellent resources online now for formulating a balanced raw or cooked diet).
Aside from the diet problem, this book is a wealth of information for lots of different health issues, even if its just to start you on the path of asking questions and learning different view points regarding natural health. My own personal journey has led me down a diverse path that doesn't necessarily align with all of Dr Pitcairns beliefs as well (i.e. whenever possible I will never again vaccinate, spay/neuter, use flea/tick or heartworm medications, etc) but it was this book exclusively that set me on my learning path. But in light of more recent developments regarding nutrition and nutrigenomics/epigenetics, I can't get behind the nutritional recommendations in this book (hence the 3 star rating).
Firstly, I'll state that this book is far more than a recipe book. It covers a multitude of topics surrounding almost every aspect of pet health, with a handy symptom/disease based guide in the latter part which goes over homeopathic, diet, and herbal treatment options. Dr Pitcairn is considered a pioneer of natural pet health, and very knowledgeable on the subject.
My experience with this book is very mixed. It certainly ignited my interest in natural health for animals, and I followed the recipes faithfully. At the time, I had two senior dogs, a malamute mix and a husky mix. The husky mix succumbed to cancer which I believe was likely present when I adopted him two years previously, and my malamute experienced symptoms of hormonal imbalances that led to a neuter surgery, followed by a brief stint of seemingly good health in which my vet boasted that he should live to at least 15, before passing away a year or so later at 12 from a sudden extreme health decline that I believe was either poisoning from my neighbor or else potentially intestinal cancer (necropsy was inconclusive). What I've learned in the years since then about diet is that dogs really have no need for carbohydrates, and a carb-heavy diet can contribute to hormonal imbalances, inflammation, and cancers. Unfortunately all of the recipes in the book are *very* heavy on the carbs (rice, oats, corn meal, bread, etc), and I wouldn't recommend them to anyone looking to feed their pets a homemade diet consequently (fortunately their are a lot of excellent resources online now for formulating a balanced raw or cooked diet).
Aside from the diet problem, this book is a wealth of information for lots of different health issues, even if its just to start you on the path of asking questions and learning different view points regarding natural health. My own personal journey has led me down a diverse path that doesn't necessarily align with all of Dr Pitcairns beliefs as well (i.e. whenever possible I will never again vaccinate, spay/neuter, use flea/tick or heartworm medications, etc) but it was this book exclusively that set me on my learning path. But in light of more recent developments regarding nutrition and nutrigenomics/epigenetics, I can't get behind the nutritional recommendations in this book (hence the 3 star rating).
September 13, 2021
What an absolute crock. From suggesting grains and cow dairy for cats to suggesting you give your dogs RAISINS as a delicious treat this book is just nonsense from cover to cover and none of the information given in this book has any sources or science to back it up. Considering Pitcairn claims that standard veterinarians just want to keep pets sick so they keep coming back, the irony of him suggesting diets and treats that could potentially KILL your animals outright is not lost.
Other gems include: Feed your pets only bottled water because tap water is poison; allow house cats to free roam outdoors; keep your pets away from microwaves, tvs, and alarm clocks, especially ones that are on; baseless vegetarian diets for cats; magic memory water as cures for a variety of sickness; a complete misunderstanding and misrepresentation of well-bred purebred dogs and health testing; a "guide to dog breeds" that provides almost dangerous characterizations of several breeds; an unfounded and baseless fear of "radiation"; antivax fear mongering; the suggestion that vitamin C prevents lead poisoning - the list goes on and on and on, and none of it has a single scientist or study named to back any of it up, although there are plenty of anecdotes from "a veterinarian" - probably Pitcairn himself.
I came to this book from the APDT suggested reading list and it certainly explains a lot about why I dislike trainers associated with that group. What an absolutely unscientific trash fire being promoted by an organization of dog trainers that loves to brand itself as being "science based".
Other gems include: Feed your pets only bottled water because tap water is poison; allow house cats to free roam outdoors; keep your pets away from microwaves, tvs, and alarm clocks, especially ones that are on; baseless vegetarian diets for cats; magic memory water as cures for a variety of sickness; a complete misunderstanding and misrepresentation of well-bred purebred dogs and health testing; a "guide to dog breeds" that provides almost dangerous characterizations of several breeds; an unfounded and baseless fear of "radiation"; antivax fear mongering; the suggestion that vitamin C prevents lead poisoning - the list goes on and on and on, and none of it has a single scientist or study named to back any of it up, although there are plenty of anecdotes from "a veterinarian" - probably Pitcairn himself.
I came to this book from the APDT suggested reading list and it certainly explains a lot about why I dislike trainers associated with that group. What an absolutely unscientific trash fire being promoted by an organization of dog trainers that loves to brand itself as being "science based".
July 25, 2021
A good add to a shelf about canine nutrition. The recent edition includes plant based foods. Having fed a 13 y old canine plant based for over 10 years (a rescued dog), I researched well and fed a nutritionally balanced 100% plant based diet. Dogs are omnivores, so meat isn't essential if all nutrients are provided. The book provides some insight to complement other resources.
February 23, 2025
If you're looking for a much more natural approach and for information that the typical vet will not mention -- this is the book for you.
The format of the book is like reading an encyclopedia and I found it to be handy on more than several occasions with my senior dog that was suffering from liver cancer.
The format of the book is like reading an encyclopedia and I found it to be handy on more than several occasions with my senior dog that was suffering from liver cancer.
December 21, 2025
Dr. and Susan Pitcairn hold pretty close to my gold standard in raising and caring for animals: Juliette de Bairacli Levy. I was seeking not only nutritiously sound dog/cat food recipes but all around natural pet care and I was not disappointed. If you are seeking a good Natural Rearing guide this one is pretty good.
March 6, 2019
I used the recipes from the original edition of this book until the spine on the book wore out. The new edition is just as good.
September 11, 2020
Lots of good info for feeding your pets better.
July 3, 2024
Excellent book if ur researching how to improve the health of ur pet!
June 8, 2019
Some very good information here about canine nutrition. A good base from which to build upon as canine nutrition becomes more current and scientifically based.
Read
September 12, 2016Dr. Pitcairn is a Gastroentrologists; a doctor or veterinarian that studies diseases of the digestive system. Since the beginning, Pitcairn has always wanted to treat animals and help make our furry companions live a healthier life. Throughout his study of veterinary medicine he noticed a chain-link on how healthy and how long an animal lives based upon what is in an animals diet. The book discusses various situations a dog or cat can endure during life such as obesity, excessive weight loss, and various skin conditions that can be caused by what they digest on the daily. With these unfortunate circumstances also come listed remedies that can literally save your dog or cat! It is truly amazing how much of an affect different foods can effect the body. This is a fantastic book for pet owners, and future veterinarians because it is jam-packed with educational information that people would need to know to make sure their animal is living just right.
Characters: Dr.Pitcairn
Setting: Animals digestive system :)))
Conflict: Skin & other health issues due to not being fed right.
Ideas/theme: Animal Nutrition & Health
Favorite Quote: "You wouldn't believe the difference!" Quote said by a pet owner who's dog was greasy, loosing hair, and was sluggish. After changing the dogs diet, the dog had improved drastically.
Likes: There was a lot of useful information that I can apply to my animals diet to help them live healthier.
Dislikes: There aren't any. I really loved all of the information provided.
Characters: Dr.Pitcairn
Setting: Animals digestive system :)))
Conflict: Skin & other health issues due to not being fed right.
Ideas/theme: Animal Nutrition & Health
Favorite Quote: "You wouldn't believe the difference!" Quote said by a pet owner who's dog was greasy, loosing hair, and was sluggish. After changing the dogs diet, the dog had improved drastically.
Likes: There was a lot of useful information that I can apply to my animals diet to help them live healthier.
Dislikes: There aren't any. I really loved all of the information provided.
August 2, 2015
there's some wacko advice in here - others have mentioned the diet, i will mention the statement that dogs don't really need bathing. as in, ever. well, if you're a real stickler and you MUST bathe your dog, once a month in castile soap is fine. yeah, this might be ok if you're not such a stickler for films of filth on all of your walls and furniture, or if your dog doesn't live indoors with you, but for the rest of us, who don't want dog-smelling grime in our living space, we bathe. another gem: cats don't need water.
still, it does contain good insights which you can use at will. no book is 100%
i keep this on my shelf, right next to the one based in traditional veterinary knowledge. when issues arise, i reference both and make up my own mind on a case-by-case basis.
it's also good to know that a responsible pet owner doesn't rush out to the vet for every little thing, and you can try more natural remedies at home for most things. i appreciate this, after experiencing veterinary care that was basically "let's try this and wait," just like the holistic methods in this book. only difference: the natural remedies cost a fraction of the vet's advice, and involve less drugs. you can always go that route if a holistic approach doesn't work.
still, it does contain good insights which you can use at will. no book is 100%
i keep this on my shelf, right next to the one based in traditional veterinary knowledge. when issues arise, i reference both and make up my own mind on a case-by-case basis.
it's also good to know that a responsible pet owner doesn't rush out to the vet for every little thing, and you can try more natural remedies at home for most things. i appreciate this, after experiencing veterinary care that was basically "let's try this and wait," just like the holistic methods in this book. only difference: the natural remedies cost a fraction of the vet's advice, and involve less drugs. you can always go that route if a holistic approach doesn't work.
January 27, 2023
First 150 pages are devoted to vegan diets. For dogs AND cats. I would never feed my dogs a vegan diet and I would never ever do that to my cats!! I only skimmed that section. Middle of the book is devoted to random pet care. Not necessarily to natural health care.
Last 100 pages are what I wanted. Actual health concerns with holistic treatment options. Author is a homeopath and I really wanted more of that throughout the book. And even more than 3 options per disease. If I could buy just the treatment section, I would. 4 stars- would be 5 if he didn't mention fasting and veganism for a cure to every disease.
Author is anti brachycephalic breeds. I do not want to live without a bulldog in my life.
Author is anti breeding. I like my pets to come from healthy, well-bred dogs.
Author is anti surgery. He states a pet can never be fully healthy or cured if an organ has been removed. And yet fully endorses gonadectomy. I am not sure how one can rationalize the 2 statements. Sigh. I wanted so much more.
I really want to buy the author's homeopathy veterinary repertory. But it is ridiculously expensive and now I'm not sure I want to invest in it.
Last 100 pages are what I wanted. Actual health concerns with holistic treatment options. Author is a homeopath and I really wanted more of that throughout the book. And even more than 3 options per disease. If I could buy just the treatment section, I would. 4 stars- would be 5 if he didn't mention fasting and veganism for a cure to every disease.
Author is anti brachycephalic breeds. I do not want to live without a bulldog in my life.
Author is anti breeding. I like my pets to come from healthy, well-bred dogs.
Author is anti surgery. He states a pet can never be fully healthy or cured if an organ has been removed. And yet fully endorses gonadectomy. I am not sure how one can rationalize the 2 statements. Sigh. I wanted so much more.
I really want to buy the author's homeopathy veterinary repertory. But it is ridiculously expensive and now I'm not sure I want to invest in it.
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